Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as a “tummy tuck”, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed. Skin can only stretch so far. When it stretches further than that point the result resembles a once blown up deflated balloon. The skin then does not respond to diet or exercise no matter how much one tries. Significant weight loss or pregnancy can result in loose and sagging skin which can be embarrassing or uncomfortable for some. However, some patients undergo this procedure for medical reasons to correct weakened abdominal muscles. The procedure removes excess skin and fat from the middle and lower part of the abdomen, which can result in the tightening of abdominal muscles. The outcome of the procedure is a flatter abdomen and, at times, a smaller waist. It is important to note that patients wishing to have this procedure should wait if they plan to lose a significant amount of weight or want to get pregnant.

The Best Candidate

You must first meet with Dr. Heddle to determine whether your expectations are realistic or not. The surgery is not limited to the sexes, therefore, both men and women can benefit from the procedure if excess or sagging skin is concentrated in the abdomen where diet and exercise do not work. Abdominoplasty is not a weight loss procedure and, therefore, not recommended for obese people and should be performed on a candidate with a healthy weight. Someone who exhibits a protruding abdomen that is out of proportion compared to the rest of one’s body is also a good candidate. Those who have weakened or separated abdominal muscles can also undergo the surgery.
The patient should be in good health and physical condition, and have a stable psychological state. As with any cosmetic procedure, the surgery will help to improve the overall appearance of the problem area, but it may not live up to your preconceived ideal. The surgery cannot prevent sagging skin from appearing in the future, however, it can increase self-confidence with the appearance of a smoother and flatter stomach. Be sure to discuss your expectations and past medical history with Dr. Heddle, as well as your support network.

The Office Visit

During your initial consultation, Dr. Heddle will ask for your detailed medical history, including information that could cause complications during the surgery, such as, uncontrolled high blood pressure, blood-clotting problems, or the tendency to develop large scars. Be sure to tell Dr. Heddle if you smoke or are taking any drugs, medications, vitamins or herbal supplements. It is important to provide Dr. Heddle with complete and accurate information.
Also during this initial visit, Dr. Heddle will ask questions about your emotional and psychological outlook on the surgery. He will also inform the patient on how to prepare for the surgery such as, when to stop eating and drinking before the operation. While the surgery is ultimately a deeply personal decision, help and advice is available for you, so feel free to ask questions and express your concerns.
Dr. Heddle may examine your abdomen while you are standing and lying down. The degree of loose skin in this region will be evaluated. Along with loose skin, the condition of your abdominal muscles and the amount of excess fat will be determined. It is important to note that a tummy tuck is not the answer to perfection but will simply improve the body’s shape.

Preparing for the Surgery

Prior to surgery Dr. Heddle and his staff will make your experience as comfortable as possible. Patients should understand the benefits and risks of this procedure before undergoing a tummy tuck. Dr. Heddle will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, including what you should/should not eat and drink, smoking and avoiding certain vitamins and medications prior to the procedure. It is very important to follow these guidelines in order to make the surgery go smoothly.
Plan to have someone with you on the day of the procedure who can drive you home afterwards and stay with you for the first 48 hours if needed.
An additional precaution is to set up a mini-recovery area in your home before the surgery. This recovery area may include: plenty of ice or cold compresses, clean towels, two to three medium-filled pillows for elevation, a thermometer, ointments or creams recommended by Dr. Heddle, magazines and books.

How the Surgery is Performed

Abdominoplasty can be performed at the same time as other cosmetic procedures such as liposuction. General anesthesia is used during the operation which allows patients to enjoy a pain free procedure while asleep. The procedure usually lasts from two to five hours.

	Dr. Heddle will make an incision in the pubic area which stretches from hip to hip. During this time, Dr. Heddle will remove excess skin between the belly button and pubic area.
	To tighten the abdomen, the skin on the upper abdomen will be pulled downwards. The belly button is then relocated.
	If the abdominal muscles are loose, they will be tightened during the procedure.
	Stitches are placed where the incisions are made and tiny tubes are placed under the skin in order to drain fluids from the wounds. The result therefore, is a flatter stomach.

After the Surgery

Patients who have undergone a tummy tuck will experience discomfort and pain in the abdomen within the first few days after surgery. Bruising and swelling is common, and will disappear within a few weeks. A sense of numbness below the belly button is also a common side effect and usually last for a few months. Some patients may experience nausea or vomiting after general anesthesia. These are all common side effects of a tummy tuck which patients experience.
Dr. Heddle may advise patients to wear a pressure garment over the abdomen to control swelling. Pain or discomfort following surgery can be alleviated with medications prescribed by Dr. Heddle. Stitches will be removed over a period of two weeks. Strenuous activities such as bending and lifting are not advised, however, patients should go for short walks in order to promote blood circulation. Any scars from the surgery are usually in areas concealed by undergarments. The incision markings will appear pink and red before they start to fade. The final result of the tummy tuck may take six months or more as the swelling continues to subside.

Getting Back to Normal

Recovery time varies among patients which depend on one’s physical condition, the extent of the tummy tuck, and the after-care procedure one follows. Patients may return to work between two to four weeks after surgery. Patients may resume more strenuous activity between four to six weeks. Severe pain should be reported to Dr. Heddle, however, periodic discomfort and swelling is common after the surgery. Two weeks is the minimum a patient should refrain from engaging in sexual activity.
The length of the results of a tummy tuck depends on the patient’s age at the time of operation, their physical condition following the procedure, and any changes in weight. If a woman plans to get pregnant following the operation there is a risk that the skin may stretch once again.

It is important to keep in mind that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss program and results depend on the patient maintaining a healthy weight. Though a tummy tuck cannot stop the natural aging process it can enhance your body contour along with your sense of comfort in your own skin.